Shutlers and officials got cash for victory

JAKARTA (JP): The Indonesian shuttlers and officials who managed to recapture the Thomas and Uber Cups were awarded "appreciation money" of Rp 150 million (about US$70,000) by the Governor of West Java R. Nuriana during their tour in Bandung, the provincial capital, on Monday.

However, Nuriana, like many other high officials who are fond of absurd quasi semantic games, insisted on defining the prize as "appreciation money" instead of a bonus.

"This is not a bonus, because sports in West Java do not recognize cash bonuses," the governor insisted gamely.

"I'm like a parent who is just giving well-deserved presents to his high-achieving children," he said with a touch of a cliche analogy.

Last month, Suryadi, chairman of the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI), who is also the Army's deputy chief of staff, rewarded each shuttler and official with "compensation money for efforts" of Rp 25 million.

It is unclear why these officials are reluctant to use the word "bonus."

Aside from the so-called "appreciation money", the shutlers and officials also received souvenirs and award certificates from the West Java municipal authority.

Prior to the ceremony at the governor's residence, the victorious teams received thousands of fans on their tour of the streets of Bandung.

The teams were scheduled to return to Jakarta yesterday before heading to Sulawesi where the victory tour continues. (hdj)